New school would do wonders for Canton Local community

When it comes to Canton Local School District's Issue 46, I believe that a new high school could do wonders for our community.

First, the new school would provide our students with an updated place to learn, to be motivated and to develop into young adults.

They would finally have science labs that aren't 50 years old. They would have an auditorium for assemblies, theatrical performances and concerts. They would have flexible classrooms and gathering spaces to inspire learning. They would have a safe, secure building designed around their needs.

This is exactly what a school should be.

Second, the new high school would have a positive effect on our property values. Kenneth Harney cites a study ("Schools can be a selling point," Repository real estate guide, Oct. 4) that concludes "On average, buyers pay $50 more per square foot for homes in top-rated school districts compared with homes served by average-rated schools." Canton Local has an "excellent" rating by the Ohio Department of Education, but the current deteriorating building detracts from our district's many attributes.

Our home is our biggest investment, and we need to protect that investment.

Third, the new high school would provide a renewed sense of pride in the community as well as several benefits for residents. For instance, possibilities for the new school include an indoor walking track and a fitness center accessible to the public. It would have an auditorium that would allow for public performances by theater troupes, bands, speakers, etc. Plus, it will have classrooms and spaces for residents to hold meetings, gain computer access and take classes.

Our students need this new high school. Our community needs this new high school. We need this new high school. Vote yes on Issue 46.